By: Akerele El
Is it now ok for you to be selfish? What does it mean to be selfish? A quick scan of the dictionary will render the definition as someone who lacks consideration for others; concerned chiefly with one’s own personal profit or pleasure. As a society, it has been agreed that this is not a desirable characteristic of any individual; but rather a selfless person, one who is primarily concerned with the needs and wishes of others is what we should aspire to be.
As responsible adults we are expected to find professional and personal balance. However, many times, career and family are pushed to the forefront, whereas taking care of self is moved towards the bottom of the list. You will find that once all of your energy has been expended, you have no desire to focus on activities of enjoyment. Know that you cannot be of great service to others or self if you are operating at minimal capacity.
Take today as the first day towards truly enjoying life’s little luxuries that are intended to revive, refresh and rejuvenate your being.
Begin by implementing the following guidelines:
- Give yourself permission to be selfish (focus on yourself)
- Learn to say no
- Don’t feel guilty for choosing to make yourself top priority
- Engage in leisure activities at least once per week
- Make time to wind down each night
- Treat yourself
- Laugh (Don’t be so serious)
- Enjoy the little things in life, take in each moment
If you consistently commit yourself to the above actions, over time, you will notice that a natural state of harmony and balance will prevail, therefore gifting you the energy and willingness to successfully complete daily professional and personal functions. So to answer the first posed question, yes it is ok to be selfish because in doing so the benefits will overflow into every aspect of your life.
The Holistic Wholeness Temple
GAIL MOVEMENT 